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brick trowel

grout bag

striking tool

4-foot level

rubber mallet

Shopping List

canvas drop cloth and painter's tape for creating the layout stone veneer Get about 20 percent more than you need for the risers and sides of the steps.

bluestone treads Add 1½ inches to the finished width of the steps (including lath, mortar, and side veneer stones) for the overhang at each end. Have your supplier "torch" the ends and front edge of each tread for a more finished look.

bluestone pavers Measure the landing and have your supplier help size the stones to include the correct overhangs, grout lines, and a gap against the house.